Cool Cucumber & Mint Refresher

• •2 cucumbers, large, peeled and roughly chopped
• •0.5 cup fresh mint leaves, packed
• •1 green apple, medium, cored and roughly chopped
• •3 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• •1 cup cold water
• •1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
• • for serving ice cubes
• • for garnish cucumber slices and fresh mint sprigs

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the ingredients: Peel and roughly chop the cucumbers. Core and roughly chop the green apple. Pick the fresh mint leaves from their stems.

2. 2

   In a high-speed blender, combine the chopped cucumbers, fresh mint leaves, chopped green apple, fresh lime juice, and 0.5 cup of cold water.

3. 3

   Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and liquified, about 1-2 minutes. Add the remaining 0.5 cup of water if needed to achieve a smooth blend and desired consistency.

4. 4

   Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the blended mixture through the sieve, using the back of a spoon or a spatula to press down on the solids and extract as much liquid as possible. For an even smoother, pulp-free juice, you can also strain it through a nut milk bag.

5. 5

   Discard the pulp. Taste the strained juice and add honey or agave nectar, 1 tablespoon at a time, if you prefer a sweeter drink. Adjust with more lime juice if you desire extra tang.

6. 6

   Chill the refresher in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until thoroughly cold. This enhances the refreshing quality.

7. 7

   To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the Cool Cucumber & Mint Refresher over the ice. Garnish each glass with a fresh cucumber slice on the rim and a sprig of fresh mint.

Chef's Tips

• 💡For an extra boost of flavor, add a small piece of fresh ginger (about 1-inch) to the blender with the other ingredients.
• 💡If you have a juicer, you can juice the cucumber, apple, and mint directly, then stir in the lime juice and optional sweetener. This will yield a thinner, more concentrated juice.
• 💡To make ahead, prepare the juice and store it in an airtight pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Stir well before serving.
• 💡Adjust the amount of water based on your desired consistency. For a thicker juice, use less water; for a lighter drink, add more.
• 💡A pinch of sea salt or pink Himalayan salt can surprisingly enhance the flavors and make the drink even more refreshing, especially on a very hot day.